State in Austria

Austria is a democratic republic. This means that state authority derives from the people and that political offices are filled according to established democratic rules. Austria is also a state governed by the rule of law, in which authorities and political bodies are bound by the law. As a federal state, Austria consists of the federal government and nine federal states. Both levels have their own responsibilities and political bodies. Which level is responsible for what is determined mainly by the Federal Constitution (Bundesverfassung) and other laws. Municipalities are also important. They deal with many matters of local life, such as municipal roads, local facilities, and certain administrative tasks. They are generally headed by a mayor. Federal legislation is enacted by Parliament. The National Council (Nationalrat) is the central directly elected chamber. The Federal Council (Bundesrat) represents the federal states and participates in federal legislation. The Federal Government administers federal matters and implements political plans. It consists of the Federal Chancellor (Bundeskanzler), the Vice-Chancellor, and the federal ministers. The Federal President (Bundespräsident) is the head of state and has specific constitutional responsibilities. The separation of powers is intended to prevent too much power from being concentrated in one place. The legislative, executive, and judicial branches have different roles. Independent courts examine disputes and protect rights under the applicable rules. The constitution provides the state's fundamental legal framework. It regulates state bodies, responsibilities, and important control mechanisms. Fundamental and human rights protect personal freedom and equal treatment by the state. In everyday life, the state does not mean only politics in Vienna. People encounter it, for example, in schools, at public authorities, before courts, through public security, or in social protection. Many responsibilities are also carried out jointly with the European Union or under requirements arising from European Union law. A democratic state creates opportunities for participation, but it cannot immediately fulfill every wish. Decisions require rules, majorities, money, and often cooperation between several levels. Oversight, public debate, and legal protection help limit mistakes and abuse of power.